Anatomy of Jianzhongshu Acupoint and Levator Scapulae AttachmentNCT06858150
Survey on Needle Depth and Angle at Jianzhongshu Acupoint Under Ultrasound Guidance
An observational study of Anatomy of Jianzhongshu Acupoint and Levator Scapulae Attachment, run by University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City at 1 site in Vietnam.
Trial summary
The levator scapulae muscle is commonly involved in chronic neck and shoulder pain, with trigger points often located at its insertion on the superior angle of the scapula. Jianzhongshu (SI15) has been identified as a corresponding acupuncture point. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 years and olderHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Anatomy of Jianzhongshu Acupoint and Levator Scapulae Attachment
- What is being tested?
- Ultrasound-Guided Needle Depth and Angle Measurement
- How many people
- 70 participants
- Where
- 1 siteVietnam
- Study dates
- 15 Mar 2025to 15 Jul 2025
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 years and older
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Study population: Healthy adult volunteers without known musculoskeletal disorders, aged 18 and older, who are eligible for ultrasound-guided acupuncture. Participants are recruited from the community and screened for inclusion and exclusion criteria before enrollment.
Who may be able to join
- Healthy adults aged 18 and older
- Ability to understand and consent to participation
Who cannot join
- Severe chronic diseases or immunocompromised conditions
- Severe exhaustion or widespread infection
- Local infections or wounds at needling sites
- History of surgery or trauma in the target area
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Vietnam1 site
University of Medical Center HCMC - Branch no.3, Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh City
About this study
Official title: Survey on Needle Depth and Angle at Jianzhongshu Acupoint With Ultrasound Guidance Targeting the Levator Scapulae Attachment
The levator scapulae muscle is commonly involved in chronic neck and shoulder pain, with trigger points often located at its insertion on the superior angle of the scapula. Jianzhongshu (SI15) has been identified as a corresponding acupuncture point.
Ultrasound imaging enhances the accuracy and safety of acupuncture by providing real-time visualization of anatomical structures, while electronic goniometry allows precise measurement of needle insertion angles.
This study aims to investigate the depth and angles of needle insertion at SI15 using ultrasound and electronic goniometry. The findings will provide essential anatomical reference data for clinical applications, particularly in acupuncture treatment for neck and shoulder pain.
Read the detailed description
The levator scapulae muscle is one of the most common muscles involved in chronic neck and shoulder pain. Acupuncture has been widely recognized as an effective and safe treatment for neck pain, with trigger point acupuncture showing significant potential in pain management. In clinical practice, trigger points are often identified at the origin or insertion of the affected muscle. For the levator scapulae, one notable trigger point is located at its insertion point on the superior angle of the scapula. Jianzhongshu (SI15) has been identified as a potential acupuncture point corresponding to this trigger point.
This observational study aims to investigate the anatomical relationship between Jianzhongshu (SI15) and the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle by assessing the depth and angle of needle insertion using ultrasound and electronic goniometry. The study will recruit healthy adult volunteers aged 18 years and older. Ultrasound imaging will be utilized to measure the needle insertion depth from the skin surface to the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle. Additionally, an electronic goniometer will be used to assess two specific angles of needle insertion: the angle relative to the skin surface and the angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the body.
The primary objective of this study is to provide anatomical data on the needle insertion depth and angles when needling Jianzhongshu (SI15) toward the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle. This data will serve as an essential reference for clinical applications, particularly in the treatment of neck and shoulder pain associated with the levator scapulae muscle and SI15.
Secondary objectives include assessing individual variations in needle depth and trajectory, as well as analyzing the influence of demographic factors such as age, gender, and BMI on these parameters.
By integrating ultrasound imaging and an electronic goniometer, this study aims to improve the accuracy and safety of acupuncture needling at SI15. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of acupuncture techniques and provide essential reference data for clinical practice, particularly in the management of neck and shoulder pain related to the levator scapulae muscle.
- Being tested
- Ultrasound-Guided Needle Depth and Angle Measurement
- Keywords
- Ultrasound Guidance, Needle Depth, Needle Angle, Levator Scapulae, Jianzhongshu acupoint
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Ultrasound-Guided Needle Depth and Angle MeasurementDiagnostic test
This study utilizes ultrasound imaging to measure the needle insertion depth at Jianzhongshu (SI15) and an electronic goniometer to assess insertion angles. The aim is to collect anatomical reference data for acupuncture needling precision, focusing on the relationship between SI15 and the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle. This is an observational study designed to collect anatomical reference data for acupuncture needling, without evaluating therapeutic effects.
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Needle Depth at Jianzhongshu
Measurement of needle depth from skin surface to the midpoint of the levator scapulae's distal attachment using ultrasound.
Measured: During the procedure
Needle Angle at Jianzhongshu
Measurement of needle angle relative to the skin surface and spine using an electronic goniometer
Measured: During the procedure
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted5 Mar 2025
- Study start15 Mar 2025
- Primary completion30 Jun 2025
- Study completion15 Jul 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (9)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Anatomy of Jianzhongshu Acupoint and Levator Scapulae AttachmentStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh CityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Enrolment
- 70 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Bui Pham Minh Man, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06858150
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 3336/DHYD-HDDD
- Status last verified
- Aug 2025
- First submitted
- 27 Feb 2025
- Last updated
- 20 Aug 2025
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
Publications
Park JJ, Akazawa M, Ahn J, Beckman-Harned S, Lin FC, Lee K, Fine J, Davis RT, Langevin H. Acupuncture sensation during ultrasound guided acupuncture needling. Acupunct Med. 2011 Dec;29(4):257-65. doi: 10.1136/aim.2010.003616. Epub 2011 Jun 4.
PubMed 21642648Liang YS, Chen LY, Cui YY, Du CX, Xu YX, Yin LH. Ultrasound-guided acupotomy for trigger finger: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2023 Sep 13;18(1):678. doi: 10.1186/s13018-023-04127-3.
PubMed 37705066Kwok G, Cohen M, Cosic I. Mapping acupuncture points using multi channel device. Australas Phys Eng Sci Med. 1998 Jun;21(2):68-72.
PubMed 9745792Mense S. Muscle pain: mechanisms and clinical significance. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2008 Mar;105(12):214-9. doi: 10.3238/artzebl.2008.0214. Epub 2008 Mar 21.
PubMed 19629211Itoh K, Katsumi Y, Hirota S, Kitakoji H. Randomised trial of trigger point acupuncture compared with other acupuncture for treatment of chronic neck pain. Complement Ther Med. 2007 Sep;15(3):172-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2006.05.003. Epub 2006 Jul 10.
PubMed 17709062Liu L, Skinner MA, McDonough SM, Baxter GD. Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture and myofascial trigger needling: The same stimulation points? Complement Ther Med. 2016 Jun;26:28-32. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2016.02.013. Epub 2016 Feb 22.
PubMed 27261978Witt CM, Jena S, Brinkhaus B, Liecker B, Wegscheider K, Willich SN. Acupuncture for patients with chronic neck pain. Pain. 2006 Nov;125(1-2):98-106. doi: 10.1016/j.pain.2006.05.013. Epub 2006 Jun 14.
PubMed 16781068Vas J, Perea-Milla E, Mendez C, Sanchez Navarro C, Leon Rubio JM, Brioso M, Garcia Obrero I. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for chronic uncomplicated neck pain: a randomised controlled study. Pain. 2006 Dec 15;126(1-3):245-55. doi: 10.1016/j.pain.2006.07.002. Epub 2006 Aug 23.
PubMed 16934402Andersen LL, Hansen K, Mortensen OS, Zebis MK. Prevalence and anatomical location of muscle tenderness in adults with nonspecific neck/shoulder pain. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2011 Jul 22;12:169. doi: 10.1186/1471-2474-12-169.
PubMed 21777478
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 20 Aug 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Survey on Needle Depth and Angle at Jianzhongshu Acupoint With Ultrasound Guidance Targeting the Levator Scapulae Attachment
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06858150
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 3336/DHYD-HDDD
- Keywords
- Ultrasound Guidance, Needle Depth, Needle Angle, Levator Scapulae, Jianzhongshu acupoint
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 70 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh CityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 15 Mar 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 30 Jun 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 15 Jul 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 5 Mar 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The levator scapulae muscle is commonly involved in chronic neck and shoulder pain, with trigger points often located at its insertion on the superior angle of the scapula. Jianzhongshu (SI15) has been identified as a corresponding acupuncture point.
Ultrasound imaging enhances the accuracy and safety of acupuncture by providing real-time visualization of anatomical structures, while electronic goniometry allows precise measurement of needle insertion angles.
This study aims to investigate the depth and angles of needle insertion at SI15 using ultrasound and electronic goniometry. The findings will provide essential anatomical reference data for clinical applications, particularly in acupuncture treatment for neck and shoulder pain.
Detailed description
The levator scapulae muscle is one of the most common muscles involved in chronic neck and shoulder pain. Acupuncture has been widely recognized as an effective and safe treatment for neck pain, with trigger point acupuncture showing significant potential in pain management. In clinical practice, trigger points are often identified at the origin or insertion of the affected muscle. For the levator scapulae, one notable trigger point is located at its insertion point on the superior angle of the scapula. Jianzhongshu (SI15) has been identified as a potential acupuncture point corresponding to this trigger point.
This observational study aims to investigate the anatomical relationship between Jianzhongshu (SI15) and the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle by assessing the depth and angle of needle insertion using ultrasound and electronic goniometry. The study will recruit healthy adult volunteers aged 18 years and older. Ultrasound imaging will be utilized to measure the needle insertion depth from the skin surface to the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle. Additionally, an electronic goniometer will be used to assess two specific angles of needle insertion: the angle relative to the skin surface and the angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the body.
The primary objective of this study is to provide anatomical data on the needle insertion depth and angles when needling Jianzhongshu (SI15) toward the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle. This data will serve as an essential reference for clinical applications, particularly in the treatment of neck and shoulder pain associated with the levator scapulae muscle and SI15.
Secondary objectives include assessing individual variations in needle depth and trajectory, as well as analyzing the influence of demographic factors such as age, gender, and BMI on these parameters.
By integrating ultrasound imaging and an electronic goniometer, this study aims to improve the accuracy and safety of acupuncture needling at SI15. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of acupuncture techniques and provide essential reference data for clinical practice, particularly in the management of neck and shoulder pain related to the levator scapulae muscle.
Study design
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 years and older
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
- Study population
- Healthy adult volunteers without known musculoskeletal disorders, aged 18 and older, who are eligible for ultrasound-guided acupuncture. Participants are recruited from the community and screened for inclusion and exclusion criteria before enrollment.
Key inclusion criteria (2 listed)
- Healthy adults aged 18 and older
- Ability to understand and consent to participation
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Severe chronic diseases or immunocompromised conditions
- Severe exhaustion or widespread infection
- Local infections or wounds at needling sites
- History of surgery or trauma in the target area
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound-Guided Needle Depth and Angle MeasurementThis study utilizes ultrasound imaging to measure the needle insertion depth at Jianzhongshu (SI15) and an electronic goniometer to assess insertion angles. The aim is to collect anatomical reference data for acupuncture needling precision, focusing on the relationship between SI15 and the insertion point of the levator scapulae muscle. This is an observational study designed to collect anatomical reference data for acupuncture needling, without evaluating therapeutic effects. | Diagnostic test | – |
Primary outcome
Needle Depth at Jianzhongshu
Time frame: During the procedure
Measurement of needle depth from skin surface to the midpoint of the levator scapulae's distal attachment using ultrasound.
Needle Angle at Jianzhongshu
Time frame: During the procedure
Measurement of needle angle relative to the skin surface and spine using an electronic goniometer
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 20 Aug 2025.
- Background: PubMed 21642648Park JJ, Akazawa M, Ahn J, Beckman-Harned S, Lin FC, Lee K, Fine J, Davis RT, Langevin H. Acupuncture sensation during ultrasound guided acupuncture needling. Acupunct Med. 2011 Dec;29(4):257-65. doi: 10.1136/aim.2010.003616. Epub 2011 Jun 4.
- Background: PubMed 37705066Liang YS, Chen LY, Cui YY, Du CX, Xu YX, Yin LH. Ultrasound-guided acupotomy for trigger finger: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2023 Sep 13;18(1):678. doi: 10.1186/s13018-023-04127-3.
- Background: PubMed 9745792Kwok G, Cohen M, Cosic I. Mapping acupuncture points using multi channel device. Australas Phys Eng Sci Med. 1998 Jun;21(2):68-72.
- Background: PubMed 19629211Mense S. Muscle pain: mechanisms and clinical significance. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2008 Mar;105(12):214-9. doi: 10.3238/artzebl.2008.0214. Epub 2008 Mar 21.
- Background: PubMed 17709062Itoh K, Katsumi Y, Hirota S, Kitakoji H. Randomised trial of trigger point acupuncture compared with other acupuncture for treatment of chronic neck pain. Complement Ther Med. 2007 Sep;15(3):172-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2006.05.003. Epub 2006 Jul 10.
- Background: PubMed 27261978Liu L, Skinner MA, McDonough SM, Baxter GD. Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture and myofascial trigger needling: The same stimulation points? Complement Ther Med. 2016 Jun;26:28-32. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2016.02.013. Epub 2016 Feb 22.
- Background: PubMed 16781068Witt CM, Jena S, Brinkhaus B, Liecker B, Wegscheider K, Willich SN. Acupuncture for patients with chronic neck pain. Pain. 2006 Nov;125(1-2):98-106. doi: 10.1016/j.pain.2006.05.013. Epub 2006 Jun 14.
- Background: PubMed 16934402Vas J, Perea-Milla E, Mendez C, Sanchez Navarro C, Leon Rubio JM, Brioso M, Garcia Obrero I. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for chronic uncomplicated neck pain: a randomised controlled study. Pain. 2006 Dec 15;126(1-3):245-55. doi: 10.1016/j.pain.2006.07.002. Epub 2006 Aug 23.
- Background: PubMed 21777478Andersen LL, Hansen K, Mortensen OS, Zebis MK. Prevalence and anatomical location of muscle tenderness in adults with nonspecific neck/shoulder pain. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2011 Jul 22;12:169. doi: 10.1186/1471-2474-12-169.
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Anatomy of Jianzhongshu Acupoint and Levator Scapulae Attachment, run by University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City at 1 site in Vietnam.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 2 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 20 Aug 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Vietnam. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Needle Depth at Jianzhongshu (time frame: During the procedure). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06858150, which also lists 9 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 20 Aug 2025.